E-cigarettes are threatening to addict a new generation to nicotine. In fact, young people who use e-cigarettes are four times more likely to start smoking cigarettes than their peers who do not vape. E-cigarette use among youth - many of whom were not smokers in the first place - has skyrocketed in recent years. Nicotine is harmful to developing brains: younger users are more likely to become addicted, have more difficulty quitting and may be at higher risk for addiction to other substances in the future. 

What is Vaping?

Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling the aerosol, often referred to as vapor, which is produced by an e-cigarette or similar device. The term is used because e-cigarettes do not produce tobacco smoke, but rather an aerosol, often mistaken for water vapor, that actually consists of fine particles. Many of these particles contain varying amounts of toxic chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, as well as respiratory and heart disease.

Are e-cigarettes and vaping devices dangerous?

Yes. The dangers of e-cigarettes are just as real as regular cigarettes. According to a 2016 Report of the Surgeon General, the vapor produced by these devices is NOT water vapor — it is a toxic aerosol that contains cancer-causing substances. Inhaling secondhand vapor from e-cigarettes can cause respiratory irritations and an increased risk for asthma, among other adverse health effects. E-cigarettes are also dangerous to youth, as the nicotine used is highly addictive and dangerous for their still-developing brains. In fact, each Juul pod or flavor cartridge contains about the same amount of nicotine as an entire pack of cigarettes. View the Surgeon General’s website on e-cigarettes and youth to learn more. 

How do I identify e-cigarettes or other vaping devices? 

Vaping devices are discreet and can be difficult to identify. The newest and most popular vaping product is the Juul, which is a small, sleek device that resembles a computer USB flash drive and actually charges in a computer's USB port. Its subtle design makes it easy to hide, which helps explain why it has become so popular among middle and high school students. It comes in several enticing flavors like crème brûlée, mango and fruit medley.